If you suffer an injury at work, you probably depend on workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical bills and part of your lost wages. The claims process can be complex, and even minor mistakes can slow the approval of your claim in Georgia.
Understanding the common mistakes that can slow down your workers’ compensation claim approval becomes your first step in preventing delays. Here are some things to steer clear of when filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Failure to report the injury promptly
One common mistake is neglecting to report the injury immediately. Georgia law obligates you to report your injury to your employer within 30 days. Any delay in this report can cause a denial of your claim.
Submitting incomplete or inaccurate information
Submitting incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to delays in your claim approval. Always include all relevant details about your injury and how it happened. Discrepancies may even cause a denial of your claim.
Neglecting medical appointments or advice
Ignoring medical appointments or not adhering to medical advice can have detrimental implications for your claim. You should show proactivity in your recovery and follow the prescribed treatment plan.
Returning to work too soon
If you return to work before you are fully healed, it could lead to premature termination of your benefits. Always follow your doctor’s advice about the right time to return to work.
Not appealing a denied claim
Many workers’ compensation claims receive an initial denial. However, if you do not appeal a denied claim, it could spell the end of your benefits. A process for appealing denied claims exists, and you should follow through with it if someone denies your claim.
Making sure to avoid these common mistakes can help speed up your workers’ compensation claim approval in Georgia. If you have been injured on the job, you should take the necessary steps to receive compensation.